15 Majestic Facts about Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II was just 25 years old when she took the throne in 1952. She is not only the longest reigning monarch in Britain’s history but also the longest-reigning female monarch in world history. More than 80% of the citizens in the UK weren’t yet born when she took the throne meaning they never known any monarch other than Queen Elizabeth II. Here are 15 Regal Facts About Queen Elizabeth II you may not have known.

1. She is the only still-living head of state to have served in WWII.

At the age of 18 then Princess Elizabeth joined the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II as a truck mechanic and driver.

2. The Queen has two birthdays.

Queen Elizabeth was born on April 21st, 1926, but her official birthday is celebrated in June that is labeled her “official” birthday (typically on the second Saturday in June).

3. There have been 13 U.S. Presidents during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

There have also been Roman Catholic Popes during the Queen’s reign (Pius XII, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul I, John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis). Moreover, 13 UK Prime Ministers have come to power in this time. Tony Blair is the first Prime Minister to have been born during her reign.

4. The Queen has sent over one millions congratulatory cards.

To receive a card, you can apply on the Palace’s website. The cards are processed by the Anniversaries Office at Buckingham Palace, and are sent on The Queen’s behalf. You must be a British citizen and cards are sent out for 100th and 105th birthdays (and beyond), as well as 60th, 65th, and 70th wedding anniversaries (and beyond).

5. Her Majesty was the first British Monarch to travel to the Middle East.

Additionally, in 1986 she was the first British Monarch to visit China.

6. The Queen has owned more than 30 corgis during her reign.

Her first corgi, Susan, was a gift for her 18th birthday in 1944. Her last corgi was named Willow and was the 14th generation descended from Susan.

7. Her majesty introduced a new breed of dogs.

A dorgi is a cross-breed between a dachshund and a corgi. They were introduced to the royal household when one of the Queen’s dogs mated with Princess Margaret’s dachshund Pipkin.